The Australian women’s team went on an unbeaten run to win the Cup of Nations by defeating Jamaica 3-0 in the final
Katrina Gorry opened the scoring for Australia and goals from Chidiac and Foord made it 3-0 in the final as Australia recorded their seventh straight win against Jamaica.
‘Phenomenal’ Matildas
Tony Gustavsson’s side took advantage of the friendly tournament to prepare for the upcoming World Cup. Still, three straight wins in the tournament, even though it was a friendly one, is still significant.
“We have had a real tournament feeling so in that sense it’s been phenomenal for us,” Gustavsson said.
“I want to be emotionally distanced from it … but we’ve learned to win. Tournament football is about grinding through and believing in what you’re doing.
“The players stayed loyal to the plan that we had and grew into the game.”
Chidiac’s goal in particular was praised, as Gustavsson spoke about why she was introduced as a substitute.
“She deserves to start on her performance, but it might not be best for the team,” Gustavsson cautioned.
“We felt that maybe that ‘Chids’ could come in between lines and unlock things, which she did brilliantly.”
Nevertheless, the Matildas will be hoping that the experience of winning the Cup of Nations gives them enough confidence to succeed at the World Cup. The tournament will be held on their home soil as well.
